For another long moment before turning away. "Mike," he called through the intercom.
"Yes, sir?"
"Get this woman some food and clothes. I'll deal with her later."
I blinked in disbelief. "Wait... you're... you're helping me?"
"I never said so," he said coldly. "I have other important things to do for now stay put, I will come back for you." he said and walked out of his office leaving me all to myself, I dared not sit, my clothes were too messed and I didn't want to ruin his luxurious chairs with my disgusting smell and clothes, he might chop of my head if I dare ruin anything for him.
The door opened again, and the security officer stepped in, motioning for me to follow. I glanced at Wade's office one last time, it felt like his imposing figure was turned back to the window when he wasn't even there.
****
*Kyle's pov*
The conference was absolutely silent as Simon, the beleaguered owner of Sweden's Park, sat across from Wade Kyle. Kyle leaned back in his chair, his piercing gaze fixed on Simon, while his secretary, Grace, flipped through the meticulously prepared contract. The room was silent except for the occasional clink of glass or the flipping of papers.
Simon cleared his throat nervously. "Mr. Kyle, I've reviewed your offer, but I have to say, five hundred billion dollars is the least I can go for. This park… it's my life's work."
This park was considered the most beautiful park in Sweden but unfortunately it lacked quality as the owner got into a lot of debt and couldn't provide maintenance any longer, but fortunately Kyle picked interest in the park, being a business tycoon, he never joked with anything that would fetch him money.
Kyle didn't react. Instead, he adjusted the cufflinks on his pristine suit, his face a mask of indifference as he listened to Simon go on and on. Grace glanced at him, waiting for permission to speak, but Kyle raised a hand, signaling her to wait.
Finally, his cold voice cut through the silence. "Simon, let's not waste each other's time. I'm interested in your park for one reason only, its potential. But don't mistake that interest for sympathy."
Simon flinched. "Mr. Kyle, I understand, but you have to see, this park has more than just potential. It's an icon, a symbol of Sweden's beauty. Surely you can meet me halfway?"
Kyle leaned forward slightly, his gaze sharpening. "You're drowning in debt, Simon. I don't negotiate with desperation. You're lucky I'm even offering three hundred billion. Do you think anyone else would overlook the flaws in your so-called masterpiece?"
Simon paled. "Flaws? What flaws? Sweden's Park is..."
"Let's not pretend," Kyle interrupted smoothly. "The materials you used for the park's foundation are substandard. Inferior concrete, cheap fixtures. Should I continue?"
Simon's mouth opened, but no sound came out.
Kyle tilted his head. "Tell me, Simon. What happens when the foundation gives way during peak tourist season? How many lives will be lost before the world discovers your negligence?"
Simon stammered, "I...I didn't…"
"Oh, you did," Kyle said, his tone as sharp as a blade. "And you're fortunate I'm a businessman, not a whistleblower. My offer is three hundred billion. Take it, or I walk."
Simon's hands trembled as he reached for his glass of water. "Mr. Kyle, please understand, I..."
Kyle stood abruptly, adjusting his suit jacket. "Grace, finalize the paperwork. I've said all I need to."
Simon scrambled to his feet. "Wait, Mr. Kyle! I accept. three hundred billion. Please, let's... let's finalize this now."
Kyle paused at the door, glancing over his shoulder. His lips curved into a faint, humorless smile. "Wise choice, Simon. But remember, you're indebted to me now."
Simon swallowed hard. "Thank you, Mr. Kyle. I… I won't forget this."
Kyle smirked. "Oh, I'm counting on it."
As Kyle exited, Grace turned to Simon, her tone brisk. "If you sign here, we'll proceed with the transfer."
Simon nodded weakly, his hands trembling as he picked up the pen. Simon knew exactly what Kyle meant. He knew he had just made a deal with a man who held his secrets, and his future in the palm of his hand. It would only take a super kind person to keep shut after discovering the material he used for his park without exposing him. At this point he didn't care of being indebted to Kyle because he knew he was the only person who wasn't a blabber mouth and would keep his secret safe.
****
*Medley's POV*
The sleek black car came to a halt in front of Zee Clothing, one of the most luxurious shopping destinations in Los Angeles. I hesitated as Mike opened the door for me. My fingers clutched the hem of my tattered dress, the fabric a stark contrast to the polished marble floors I could see inside the mall. I stepped out hesitantly, feeling every stare from the people around.
"Miss," Mike said politely, gesturing for me to follow.
The weight of embarrassment pressed down on me. I wasn't used to being escorted like this, with security guards flanking me like I was someone important. I kept my head bowed, wishing I could disappear.
Inside the store, the atmosphere was lavish, almost surreal. Bright chandeliers hung above, and rows of designer dresses shimmered under the lights. The rich scent of leather and perfume lingered in the air.
"Welcome to Zee Clothing, sir!" a cheerful salesperson greeted Mike, her professional smile never faltering.
"Show us your best collection for the week," Mike said firmly.
My head snapped up. The best collection? My heart sank. Those were always limited-edition pieces, worth more money than I could ever dream of having. Panic bubbled up inside me.
"Wait," I said quickly, my voice trembling. "Isn't there… something less expensive? I mean… these are too much. I can't wear them."
Mike turned to me, his expression unreadable. "Miss, we don't go against Mr. Wade's orders. He instructed that you only get the best."